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en·cour·age

encourage

pronunciation:: ihn kuhr ihj
features:: Word Parts

part of speech:	verb
inflections:	encourages, encouraging, encouraged
definition 1:	to give hope or courage to; give confidence to. Winning in the first round encouraged the team and gave them confidence that they could win. antonyms: deter, discourage, dismay similar words: assure, cheer, inspire, rally, rouse
definition 2:	to give help, support, or approval to. The coach encouraged her in her dreams of becoming a track star.The two boys were starting up a fight, and their friends were encouraging them. synonyms: egg on, prompt, spur on antonyms: hinder similar words: incite, inspire, invite, pat on the back, prod, stimulate, support
definition 3:	to enthusiastically advise (someone) to do something; urge. Her parents encouraged her to audition for the school play. synonyms: urge
related words:	animate, assist, comfort, console, feed, help, lift, nourish, push, recommend, sanction, urge, warm, welcome

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